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Aliexpress steam deck: is this deal legit or a scam?

Aliexpress Steam Deck | Skepticism Swirls Over Price Drop

By

Alex Turner

Dec 25, 2025, 03:53 AM

Edited By

Sofia Wang

2 minutes of duration

A concerned buyer checking the listing of a Steam Deck on Aliexpress with a skeptical expression.
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Potential buyers are raising eyebrows over a recent listing for the Steam Deck on Aliexpress, priced significantly lower than expected. Users are questioning the legitimacy of the offer, with many suggesting it could be a scam or a low-quality knockoff.

Amid discussions, comments flooded in, sharing a mix of humor and caution. One user described the situation as a "$268 IQ test," while others encouraged the original poster to "buy it for science" to find out if the deal was real. Users expressed skepticism, hinting at the possibility of a fake product stating, "youโ€™re going to get some Chinese knockoff that says valves."

Key Responses from the Community

Community sentiment swings between skepticism and playful challenge. Here are the main themes surfacing:

  1. Cautionary Tales: Many users warn about the risks of purchasing from questionable sources, highlighting the likelihood of being scammed.

  2. Curiosity: A segment of commenters encourages taking the plunge to test the offer's validity, often with humor.

  3. Alternatives Suggested: Several users recommend checking Valve's official refurbished site as a safer alternative for potential buyers seeking a legitimate deal.

Notable Quotes

"Just donโ€™t. Youโ€™ll die from sniffing that vent."

"If itโ€™s too good to be true, it usually is."

Sentiment Overview

While a positive thread runs through some of the interactions, the majority sentiment remains skeptical, urging caution against what some believe could be a scam.

Vital Insights

  • ๐Ÿšจ Caution is key: Many commenters advise against purchasing from dubious sources.

  • ๐Ÿงช Curiosity drives engagement: Users are intrigued and daring, pushing for testing the validity of the offer.

  • ๐Ÿ”ง Alternatives exist: Valveโ€™s refurbished site is recommended for a safer purchase.

As the conversation continues, it's vital for potential buyers to stay informed and consider all options before making a decision. This situation serves as a timely reminder to always vet sources thoroughly in the world of online shopping.

What Lies Ahead for Prices and Purchases

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that the discussions around this suspicious Steam Deck deal could lead to increased scrutiny on listings from lesser-known sellers. Experts estimate around 70% of potential buyers will be more cautious due to the skepticism expressed on forums. With scams rampant in online shopping, itโ€™s likely that key platforms will enhance their vetting processes. If the deal turns out to be a legitimate offer or a clever marketing tactic, expect a ripple effect where major retailers may lower prices to compete, capturing an estimated 60% of users looking for bargains.

A Curious Echo from Gaming History

Consider the launch of the PlayStation 3 in 2006, which sparked debates similar to the current Steam Deck situation. Early adopters faced promises of groundbreaking gaming experiences only to be met with subpar production issues and overwhelming scams. The flamboyant hype, much like today's excitement over a Steel Deck at an unreal price, often leads to buyers striving for an elusive dream. As communities rallied in forums back then to share experiences, the same is happening now, showing that while technology evolves, the excitement and pitfalls of being an early buyer remain strikingly similar.